A Texas teenager accused of fatally stabbing a high school football star at a track meet is reportedly living in a $900,000 home inside a luxurious gated community, despite claiming financial difficulties in court. Karmelo Anthony, 17, resides with his family in the upscale Richwoods neighborhood in Frisco, Texas. He was released from jail on a reduced $250,000 bond after being charged with the murder of Austin Metcalf earlier this month.
The home, where rent is estimated at $3,500 a month, features a white Suburban, a black Acura, and another sedan in the driveway. Neighbors noticed a new car with a paper tag that expires in June, indicating recent purchase. Residents of the gated community were surprised to learn that Anthony’s family was living in their midst, expressing concerns about having an accused killer in their exclusive neighborhood.
The gated community of Richwoods is located just a mile away from Centennial High School, where Anthony attended school and was a track athlete. Some neighbors voiced their disapproval of Anthony being released on bail, stating that his family does not appear to be struggling financially if they can afford to live in such an affluent area. Deliveries have been reportedly flooding the home, with Amazon trucks making multiple drop-offs, possibly for Anthony.
It is unclear how long Anthony and his family have resided in the home. Anthony had been in Collin County Jail on a $1 million bond, charged with first-degree murder for allegedly stabbing Metcalf in the heart during a fight at a track meet. Anthony claimed self-defense, with his family setting up a fundraiser for legal fees, which has raised over $440,000 as of now.
A judge reduced Anthony’s bond to $250,000, allowing him to await trial at home with an ankle monitor under 24-hour supervision. His attorney argued for the reduction, citing his lack of prior criminal history and the need for security for the family. The funds raised are also intended for additional security and legal fees.
However, questions were raised about why the raised funds were not used to pay Anthony’s bond. The family explained that accessing the money was not as simple as making a phone call and that a portion had already been allocated for legal defense. The case continues to unfold as Anthony awaits trial for the tragic incident at the track meet.
